Four reasons why the non-profit sector should invest in an advocacy strategy

With many non-profits looking to shift their strategy and operations in a time of fiscal uncertainty, now is the time to update your government advocacy strategy to reflect the current political environment.

While many non-profits meet with different levels of government on a regular basis, its important to have a strategy to make real tangible progress that can yield long-term benefits.

After all, government policy and budget decisions can have a major impact on your sector and the future sustainability of your organization and the services you deliver.
As governments consider how to support the economy and employers from the impacts of global tariffs and rising costs, the non-profit sector deserves an opportunity to have their voice heard and their role understood by key decision-makers.

1. Opportunity to influence public policy and government priorities

Government decisions, including new legislation, laws and funding priorities, can greatly shape the environment in which a nonprofit operates. Advocacy allows your organization to:

Shape public policies that align with your organization’s goals and mandate.
Inform government legislation that may have an impact on your industry or those you serve.
Promote systemic change and innovation in how government programs are delivered.
Ensure your ask is positioned to resonate with government decision-makers and aligns with current governmental priorities.

2. Secure new sources of funding and fill gaps

Governments are often major funders of non-profit programs and services. While different levels of government are looking for opportunities to find government savings, the non-profit sector has the opportunity to help government fill gaps when it comes to services the public relies on. Advocacy can help to:

Protect and increase public funding for your programs services.
Ensure strategic allocation of resources for your industry, during a time of fiscal constraint.
Demonstrate to government that funding will achieve a positive return-on-investment, or possible government savings.
Strengthen organizational credibility and leadership within your sector.

3. Build strategic relationships

A strong advocacy strategy creates opportunities for the non-profit sector to:

Build long-term relationships with elected officials, public servants, and policy makers.
Access a seat at the table where your voice can be heard by key decision-makers.
Partner with government on new initiatives or participate in pilot projects.
Be seen as a credible, informed stakeholder and thought leader.

4. Navigate political and regulatory change
With government relations support and guidance, your organization can:

Stay ahead of policy shifts that could impact your operations.
Adapt quickly to new political environments (e.g. after elections or cabinet shuffles).
Communicate strategically and proactively rather than reactively.
Align with other stakeholders to advocate for change.

In closing, investing in government relations and advocacy is a strategic imperative for non-profits seeking lasting change and long-term sustainability. In this time of uncertainty and fiscal restraint, its even more important to build relationships with key decision-makers who can champion your cause and help you advocate for meaningful progress.

Please reach out if you have any questions about how we can help you navigate the current government landscape, both provincially, federally and municipally.

About the Author: Kelly is the founder of Informed Advocacy - a boutique government relations and strategic communications firm dedicated to achieving positive change in the healthcare and not-for-profit industries.

Kelly has served as a strategic advisor to the Premier of Ontario, CEOs, government leaders and industry executives for more than 20 years.

Kelly advises her clients on effective advocacy with government decision-makers and influencers, strategic communications, issues management and media relations.

Recognized as one of Hill Times’ Top 100 Lobbyists, Kelly has a proven track record of securing significant funding and influencing policy decisions at the federal, provincial and municipal government levels.